Adult Education
Discover Judaism
Discover Judaism is a journey of discovery into the amazing world of principles, values, history and teachings of Judaism that is especially geared for those who never studied Judaism on an adult level. Most members who have taken this course have been amazed by the realization of how much of their own heritage they knew nothing about. Discover Judaism may also be used as the educational component for those who wish to become Jews by Choice. The first hour (7 PM) is an introductory Hebrew class required of those seeking to convert, taught by Fransisco Vargas. The second hour (8PM) is Discover Judaism taught by Senior Rabbi Aaron Rubinger and Rabbi David Kay. The second hour is open on a per class basis for anyone interested in the topic. For more information contact the Clergy Assistant at clergyasst@ohevshalom.org
Adult Conservative Yeshiva
Every year and each semester new and different core courses are offered by Senior Rabbi Aaron Rubinger and Rabbi David Kay. Last year the class 101 Things to Love About Judaism drew 200 students. Other classes are smaller and may focus either on particular subject such as Jewish Literature or Jewish Mysticism or on texts from the Hebrew Bible, Midrash, or Talmud. Courses are often taught twice a week – once in the evening and once during day time hours to enable people with different scehdules gto enjoy these high quality courses. The Adult Conservative Yeshiva is made possible through the Sager Fund and is open to the community. For more information contact the COS office.
Adult B’Nai Mitzvah
This is an 18 month course of study for those adults who would like to celebrate becoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The course includes Hebrew, classic Jewish texts, synagogue skills, reading and chanting Torah and Haftarah. The students master all synagogue skills and the course culminates with the students becoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah on a Shabbat weekend.
Mondays at 1
This three to six week series of day time classes explore aspects of Jewish life, lore and meaning. Previous topics have included “Watch Your Tongue,” “Gender and Judaism,” and “Judaism for Grown Ups.” This course is taught by Rabbi David Kay. Classes are open to the community. For more information contact the COS office.
Friday Night Learning Series
This award winning program takes place every Friday night during the traditional Kabbalat Shabbat service in lieu of a sermon. A new series begins each year and is taught by Senior Rabbi Aaron Rubinger and Rabbi David Kay. The current topic is “What Happened In Modern Jewish History On This Week.”
Dr. Edward S Ackerman Scholar in Residence
The Dr. Edward S. Ackerman Scholar in Residence Fund was established in his memory by his family to bring quality educational programs to Congregation Ohev Shalom and the community. COS serves as host to a scholar over at least one Shabbat each year. Interesting visiting speakers and topics draw members of the community to Ohev for this exciting program.
Newish Jewish
This Chavurah was created for those who are new to Judaism, those who wish to learn more about Judaism and those who grew up Jewish and would like to know more about their religious tradition. How do you build a sukkah? What is Yiddish? How do I make a Seder? These are some of the practical topics you will learn about as you share experiences and grow together as Jews.
Live from NY’s 92nd Street Y
In partnership with the Roth JCC, Congregation Ohev Shalom brings dynamic speakers and celebrated luminaries to the synagogue sanctuary via satellite from New York’s 92nd Street Y. This program is presented for a nominal charge and is open to the entire community. Past speakers include Elie Wiesel, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Matisyahu.